Thank you Andrea

Andrea Tulip and Age Concern have provided an essential service for all residents regardless of age

Andrea Tulip, of Hedworth Jarrow, works at Age Concern as a Deputy Supervisor a role she has occupied for the last six months while the normal supervisor is ill. Her usual role is that of a Senior Home Support Worker.

Before the lockdown began, Andrea’s day-to-day tasks involved supporting the elderly with shopping and supporting them at home. During the lockdown, her role as a shopper became more important than ever as many elderly residents were unable to do the shopping themselves due to Government guidance suggesting that all citizens over 70 should not leave their home.

In the early stages, Andrea and Age Concern were only shopping for the elderly but after social workers reached out to the charity, they extended their shopping offer to cover all people who were shielding and were unable to do the shopping themselves regardless of age.

Andrea said: “Every day we have been shopping for the most vulnerable across the Borough and we are proud to be able help those that need it most.

As well as shopping, Andrea also helps residents who have been discharged from hospital.

“We pick up patients who have been discharged from hospital and take them home. This means that we do have to interact with people who have potentially had coronavirus, but we take every precaution to protect ourselves and the people we are supporting.

“The work we do is essential to help the most vulnerable of the Borough get through this virus and ensure that they have all of their basic needs met.”

The Mayor of South Tyneside Councillor Norman Dick, said: “On behalf of the people of South Tyneside, The Mayoress and I would like to convey our gratitude to you for your support to the community and helping residents who are vulnerable and in need of our support.

“I feel that South Tyneside has joined together, more than ever, as a community and as the Borough’s First Citizen, I would like to say a huge personal thank you for being part of our community and for helping us address this challenge in an extremely positive way. We are extremely #proud.”